Seven Things to Stop Doing to Your Skin

1. DIY Skin Care

DIY projects can be fun and cost-effective for home improvements and crafts, but when it comes to skin care, kitchen-made concoctions are not ideal. Developing a safe and effective skin care formula requires careful consideration, and homemade alternatives can irritate or damage sensitive skin.

DIY skin care trends often gain traction as people look for ways to save money on commercial products. While some natural ingredients may benefit the skin, others can do more harm than good. Viral “hacks” like sugar or coffee scrubs and lemon juice mixed with baking soda are common examples. For instance, the skin’s pH is around 4.7, while lemon juice has a pH of about 2, making it far too acidic and likely to cause irritation.

2. Peel-Off Masks

Peel-off masks and pore strips may seem satisfying, but they can harm your skin. These products can strip away the skin’s top layer and leave behind residue that clogs pores.

Instead of achieving smooth, glowing skin, you may end up with irritation and acne. Rather than relying on over-the-counter masks, invest in quality skin care products that nourish the skin without causing damage. Professional facial treatments are another option for achieving a clean, radiant complexion.

3. Extreme Dieting

Extreme dieting indirectly affects skin health. Many fad diets encourage cutting out essential food groups, which can negatively impact your complexion.

While reducing gluten, dairy or sugar may help some avoid breakouts, eliminating all carbohydrates or other critical nutrients can deprive the body of vitamins essential for healthy skin. For example, cutting out fruit to avoid sugar is counterproductive, as fruits like mangoes are rich in vitamins A, C and D, which reduce inflammation and promote hydration. Always question diets that suggest eliminating nutrient-rich foods.

4. Pore Vacuums

Pore vacuums gained popularity through viral videos showcasing their ability to clear clogged pores. However, these devices often cause more harm than good. Improper use can lead to redness, bruising and broken blood vessels.

Instead of risking irritation, opt for noninvasive methods like exfoliating toners or professional chemical peels. These treatments help decongest pores without damaging the skin.

5. Sunscreen and Fake Tan Contouring

This trend involves applying high-SPF sunscreen to specific areas of the face to create a contoured effect after sun exposure. While sunscreen is essential for skin care, this practice overlooks its primary purpose: protection from harmful UV rays.

Selective sunscreen application can result in uneven tan lines and long-term skin damage. Instead, apply sunscreen evenly to your entire face and use makeup for contouring. Similarly, while fake tan products can achieve a contoured look, they often result in uneven application or cause breakouts.

6. Slugging

Slugging, a trend where petroleum jelly is applied to the face to lock in moisture, gained popularity among those with dry skin. However, the thick barrier created by petroleum jelly can trap oil, debris and dead skin cells, leading to breakouts.

Experts remain divided on the effectiveness of slugging, but a modified approach may be safer. Instead of petroleum jelly, try using a facial oil to lock in moisture without suffocating the skin.

7. Essential Oils

Though essential oils are natural, their concentrated formulas can irritate the skin and clog pores, particularly for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

To avoid adverse reactions, stick to lightweight moisturizers designed for your specific skin type rather than experimenting with essential oils. FBN

To schedule an appointment with Ashley Dial, visit www.etherealestheticsbyashley.glossgenius.com or call 928-864-8438. Ethereal Esthetics is located at 519 N. Leroux in downtown Flagstaff, inside Studio Rox. Ashley Dial is owner, operator and licensed esthetician of Ethereal Esthetics By Ashley. For more information and a free consultation, please visit her website or give her a call.